THE state and federal governments have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the diabetes epidemic in the west, but fell short of committing to additional funding.
Health Minister Nicola Roxon, whose seat of Gellibrand covers the inner west, said she had launched a range of healthy living programs to encourage people to eat better and get active. "The Rudd Government is acutely aware that diabetes is a health issue right across Australia and particularly in the west.
"In response to this situation, the Government has invested a record $872 million into preventative health - the largest single commitment in preventive health by an Australian government."
A State Government spokesman said various preventive health programs were turning the tide of chronic diseases like diabetes.
More than 818,000 Australians, or 4per cent of the population, reported having diabetes in 2007-08. Of these, 88per cent had type 2.
Useful websites: www.measureup.gov.au or www.ndss.com.au or www.diabetesvic.org.au/
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